The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) has raised alarm over alleged unlawful salary deductions affecting police officers in the Western Cape, leaving some with as little as R28 in their bank accounts and facing eviction from state housing.
Financial Hardship and Evictions
POPCRU President Thulani Ngwenya revealed that officers stationed at the Parkhof police barracks in Kenilworth were subjected to unexpected deductions for accommodations they had already vacated. Some members reported severe financial distress, with one officer allegedly receiving only R28 after deductions.
Ngwenya accused SAPS management of negligence, stating that proper procedures—such as signed housing agreements and structured payment plans—were not followed. “These were unlawful deductions because someone failed to do their job,” he said.
Calls for Accountability
The union claims the issue dates back to December 2022, with repeated attempts to engage SAPS management ignored until media pressure mounted. Ngwenya demanded a full investigation and consequences for officials responsible, including the provincial commissioner.
SAPS Response
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated that “support is available” for affected members and emphasized SAPS’s commitment to officer well-being. However, Ngwenya dismissed this, arguing that officers were never given a chance to negotiate repayment terms before deductions were enforced.
Broader Implications
The dispute highlights systemic issues in police housing policies, with Ngwenya questioning why officers are charged market-related rents—up to R10,000—while parliamentarians pay a capped R1,500.
POPCRU has vowed to escalate the matter nationally, urging immediate intervention to rectify the deductions and prevent further hardship.